2003 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1990 Volvo 780
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volvo 780. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volvo 780 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Volvo 780 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Volvo 780 (200 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Volvo 780 should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Volvo 780 weights approximately 392 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 Volvo 780 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1990 Volvo 780. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (155 Nm) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volvo 780. (143 Nm). This means 2003 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volvo 780.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Volkswagen Golf | 1990 Volvo 780 | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volvo |
| Model | Golf | 780 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.9 mm | 80 mm |
| Top Speed | 192 km/hour | 213 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.8 seconds | 8.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2780 mm |
